Phil Ohl
I started this firm on what some might call a whim, but it was really the culmination of deeply transformative life experiences. Fresh out of a master’s degree in Leadership and Administration, I was still reflecting on my athletic journey—a journey that peaked when I played against Michael Jordan and the Dream Team during the Olympic qualifying tournament. Yet, just days later, my lifelong dream of competing in the Olympic Games ended in heartbreak when my team narrowly missed the final berth.
The highs and lows of my career as an elite athlete profoundly shaped me. Transitioning into the workforce, however, brought unexpected challenges. In sports, values like discipline, teamwork, coachability, and a shared commitment to excellence were foundational. In my professional life, I encountered something different: gossip, personal agendas, cliques, and ego-driven behavior—dynamics that clashed with the culture of excellence I had known.
Simultaneously, my brother’s struggles with mental health weighed heavily on me. Supporting him through his challenges gave me unique insight into resilience and the complexities of human behavior. These personal and professional experiences fueled my growing passion for leadership and team dynamics. I immersed myself in books, attended workshops, and spearheaded professional development initiatives. Soon, I was being invited to speak on leadership and team culture at other organizations.
It became clear that there was a real need for this work—and that I had a voice others found valuable. From that realization, this firm was born.
Fast forward 25 years: I’ve worked with hundreds of coaching clients across diverse industries, been guided by an extraordinary mentor and friend, and gained access to limitless resources and learning opportunities. I’ve also lived with MS for two decades, and since COVID, I’ve navigated life from a wheelchair. These experiences have enriched my understanding of human nature and helped me develop a transformative methodology for those truly committed to growth and learning.
This year, I turned 60, and my son joined the firm—how cool is that? These milestones have brought my "WHY" into sharp focus. Now, I ask myself: What legacy do I want to leave? What positive impact can I create through The Leader's Edge, the company I started 25 years ago?
After navigating the challenges of elite sports, the loss of my brother, and my journey with MS, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the power of resilience, responsibility, and teamwork. My Why is simple yet profound: to inspire and empower others to unlock their full potential and show up as their best selves—just as I was supported to do.